Key Strategies to Prevent Erosion in Your Backyard

Erosion might not be the first thing on your mind when planning your garden, but it’s a serious issue that can lead to loss of soil, damage to plants, and even structural instability in your yard. Preventing erosion is crucial for maintaining a healthy, vibrant outdoor space. Here’s what you need to know.

What Causes Erosion?

Erosion is a natural process where wind and water wear away soil. While this happens gradually, extreme weather events like heavy rain, floods, and strong winds can accelerate soil loss. Factors that contribute to erosion include:

• Steep slopes or uneven ground
• Poor soil quality
• Lack of vegetation cover
• Excessive runoff from rainwater

Short-Term Solutions to Prevent Erosion

If you notice early signs of erosion, you can take immediate steps to stabilise the soil and prevent further damage.

Mulching

Applying mulch—such as straw, bark, or compost—helps absorb the impact of heavy rain and keeps the soil structure intact. It also retains moisture, preventing soil from drying out and becoming more prone to erosion.

Using Hay Bales as Barriers

Placing hay bales along slopes or erosion-prone areas can help slow down water flow, reducing the force that washes soil away. Secure them with stakes to ensure they stay in place during heavy rains.

Long-Term Erosion Control Strategies

For more sustainable solutions, consider implementing landscaping features that stabilise the soil over time.

Strategic Rock and Boulder Placement

Large rocks and boulders act as natural anchors, holding soil in place on slopes and preventing rapid runoff. They also add an aesthetic touch to your garden.

Geo-textile and Hessian Matting

Fabrics like geo-textile and hessian provide a protective layer that allows water to penetrate while keeping the soil in place. These are especially useful for windy areas where soil can be easily blown away.

Contour Swales and Terracing

Creating shallow ridges (swales) or terraces on sloped land helps slow water movement, allowing it to soak into the ground rather than carrying soil away. Adding rocks to the base of swales can provide extra reinforcement.

Sump Pits for Drainage

Digging a sump pit—a hole filled with porous material like blue metal—helps capture excess water and control runoff. This prevents water from pooling in low-lying areas and washing soil away.

Planting Ground Covers and Deep-Rooted Plants

Vegetation plays a key role in preventing erosion. Quick-growing ground covers like Cerastium and deep-rooted grasses such as Lomandra and Festuca help bind soil together, reducing movement.

The Importance of Proper Land Use

Soil erosion is more likely when land is used in ways that exceed its natural capability. If you have steep slopes or poor soil, consider:

• Keeping these areas covered with vegetation
• Avoiding excessive foot traffic or machinery use
• Implementing water management techniques like contouring

Why Surface Cover Matters

A simple but effective way to control erosion is by maintaining good ground cover. Studies show that having at least 30% soil cover significantly reduces erosion risks. Surface cover:

• Lessens the impact of raindrops
• Prevents wind from lifting soil particles
• Slows down water flow

How Professional Gardeners Can Help

If erosion is becoming a persistent issue in your backyard, professional gardeners can help assess the problem and implement tailored solutions. They have the expertise to choose the right plants, design effective drainage systems, and reinforce vulnerable areas to prevent further damage.

Preventing erosion in your backyard ensures your garden remains lush and stable for years to come. Whether you need mulching, landscaping, or drainage solutions, hiring a professional gardener can save you time and effort while guaranteeing effective results.

Find a local gardener on ServiceSeeking.com.au today and safeguard your outdoor space against erosion!